Spiced Poached Pears with Granola & Sweet Cashew Cream

I know I’ve been pretty much awol for the past couple of weeks. After posting most days of the month for Vegan MOFO in September, I’ve kind of taken it easy over the past couple of weeks. But ~ the break is over and I have some great stuff coming up, I promise. Plus I’m working on my contribution to the upcoming Virtual Vegan Potluck, which I’m very excited for. There are always so many amazing things created for this event!

I had a wonderful cooking class tonight, with a fun group of people, and I wanted to share the dessert that we made. It’s very quick and easy, and can be completely customized to however you’ll like it best. I don’t happen to like pears very much, but they are right in season, and work very well with this dessert. Or you can change them out for apples, the end of the summer peaches, or whatever fruit you would prefer.

(and apologies for the photos – they are Blackberry photos, taken right before dessert was served at the class dinner)

Spiced Poached Pears with Granola & Sweet Cashew Cream

• 4 pears, peeled and sliced or chopped
• ¼ teaspoon each cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger and cardamom
• 1 1/2 cups water
• 1 1/2 cups cashews
• 1 1/2 cups water
• 1 1/2 tablespoons sweetener
• 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1-2 cups granola of your choice (your fave store-bought, or you can use this great recipe)

Place the pears, spices and water in a small saucepan. Simmer until the pears have softened and the water is reduced by half.

Blend together the cashews, water, sweetener and vanilla to make the cashew cream. Chill until serving.

Layer the components in the dish: pears, granola, cashew cream and repeat until used. End with a drizzle of cashew cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon on top.

Serves 4.